BY JORDAN REGNIS
The new $2.2 million Westcott Street Bridge has now opened in the Cessnock LGA.
The new dual lane concrete bridge includes an added pedestrian access footway, and an open load limit.
Cessnock Mayor Jay Suvaal says the bridge will "reduce annual maintenance costs by 80%".
The bridge serves around 84 businesses, which include those in healthcare, administrative services, transport and construction.
The open load limit means there are no longer restrictions on larger emergency vehicles.
Upgrades were funded under the Transport for NSW Fixing Country Bridges Program.